Late 19c Italian Sabre

Jim McDougall · 26th July 2009, 04:04 PM

Thank you for the input Kisak. These type blades seem well known on many of the Prussian swords of latter 19th century, and I agree, it really does seem strange. I had always thought these were confined to the early 19th century. Some good line illustrations in "Cut and Thrust Weapons" (E. Wagner, 1967) will better show the type meant. I am wondering if this is a Solingen blade, and of course, that perhaps someone out there might have access to Calamandrei.

All best regards,
Jim

kronckew · 26th July 2009, 10:40 PM

i'd also posted this over on sword forum international, the following info was received so far. (no pictures there yet)

Quote:

Originally Posted by niall dignan

This appears to be an Italian Model 1888 Artillary sabre.The thumb rebate first appeared on the Model 1871 Cavalry troopers sabre.This innovation followed work by Capitano Settimo del Frate to improve the grip and balance of the Italian military sword.It proved very successful and was used right up until WW11. Most Italian swords in service during WW1 were blued and I assume this one is from that period.Also they generally appear to have been sharpened for service use. The pipeback blade on these swords can seem somewhat flimsy but is certainly very lively.A nice sword.

Quote:

Originally Posted by David M. W.

As for the reference, similar saber is depicted in Storia Della'Arma Bianca Italiana on page 89 and described as M1888 Horse Artillery sword.

roanoa · 26th July 2009, 10:54 PM

Model 1888 Artiglieria a cavallo (mounted artillery). Appears to be a "non-regulation" (fuori oridinanza) blade, which was very common with privately purchased officer swords. Very nice.

kronckew · 27th July 2009, 12:12 AM

very interesting; i'd been told it was an officer's sword when i bought it, but the plain guard and blade had me thinking it was more likely a lower rank's issue weapon.

27th July 2009, 12:12 AM	#4
kronckew Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Room 101, Glos. UK Posts: 4,215	very interesting; i'd been told it was an officer's sword when i bought it, but the plain guard and blade had me thinking it was more likely a lower rank's issue weapon. Last edited by kronckew; 27th July 2009 at 12:25 AM.

26th July 2009, 04:04 PM	#1
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,192	Thank you for the input Kisak. These type blades seem well known on many of the Prussian swords of latter 19th century, and I agree, it really does seem strange. I had always thought these were confined to the early 19th century. Some good line illustrations in "Cut and Thrust Weapons" (E. Wagner, 1967) will better show the type meant. I am wondering if this is a Solingen blade, and of course, that perhaps someone out there might have access to Calamandrei. All best regards, Jim

26th July 2009, 10:54 PM	#3
roanoa Member Join Date: Jun 2005 Posts: 241	Model 1888 Artiglieria a cavallo (mounted artillery). Appears to be a "non-regulation" (fuori oridinanza) blade, which was very common with privately purchased officer swords. Very nice.